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Alpha‐lipoic acid (ALA) as a supplementation for weight loss: results from a meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Author(s) -
Kucukgoncu S.,
Zhou E.,
Lucas K.B.,
Tek C.
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
obesity reviews
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.845
H-Index - 162
eISSN - 1467-789X
pISSN - 1467-7881
DOI - 10.1111/obr.12528
Subject(s) - placebo , confidence interval , medicine , weight loss , meta analysis , body mass index , obesity , randomized controlled trial , strictly standardized mean difference , weight change , alternative medicine , pathology
Summary Objectives Obesity is associated with significant morbidity and mortality rates. Even modest weight loss may be associated with health benefits. Alpha‐lipoic acid (ALA) is a naturally occurring antioxidant. Studies have suggested anti‐obesity properties of ALA; however, results are inconsistent. The purpose of this study is to conduct a meta‐analysis of the effect of ALA on weight and body mass index (BMI). Methods A comprehensive, systematic literature search identified 10 articles on randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled studies involving ALA. We conducted a meta‐analysis of mean weight and BMI change differences between ALA and placebo treatment groups. Results Alpha‐lipoic acid treatment coincided with a statistically significant 1.27 kg (confidence interval = 0.25 to 2.29) greater mean weight loss compared with the placebo group. A significant overall mean BMI difference of −0.43 kg/ m 2 (confidence interval = −0.82 to −0.03) was found between the ALA and placebo groups. Meta‐regression analysis showed no significance in ALA dose on BMI and weight changes. Study duration significantly affected BMI change, but not weight change. Conclusions Alpha‐lipoic acid treatment showed small, yet significant short‐term weight loss compared with placebo. Further research is needed to examine the effect of different doses and the long‐term benefits of ALA on weight management.